Playgrounds seen as key to maintain child health

The playground at Howsman Elementary school in Northside ISD is locked.

Photo By San Antonio Express-News

Julian Hendrix, 4, plays on the playground at Howard Early Childhood Center in the Alamo Heights ISD on Friday July 19, 2013. A research group called Salud America! from the UT Health Science Center did what the director called a "comprehensive literature review" to conclude that 81 percent of Latino neighborhoods do not have a recreational facility, compared to 38 percent of white neighborhoods. The research shows access to playgrounds, gyms or sports fields make kids more likely to become physically active and maintain a healthy weight. In San Antonio, school playgrounds are often the only option but their policies vary widely.

Photo By San Antonio Express-News

Julian Hendrix and Kair Funaro play on the playground at Howard Early Childhood Center in the Alamo Heights ISD on Friday July 19, 2013. A research group called Salud America! from the UT Health Science Center did what the director called a "comprehensive literature review" to conclude that 81 percent of Latino neighborhoods do not have a recreational facility, compared to 38 percent of white neighborhoods. The research shows access to playgrounds, gyms or sports fields make kids more likely to become physically active and maintain a healthy weight. In San Antonio, school playgrounds are often the only option but their policies vary widely.

Nationwide disparities in access to playgrounds could help explain higher obesity rates among young Latinos, according to recently released findings that show outdoor play is key to helping children maintain a healthy weight.

In San Antonio neighborhoods, such access varies widely, much of it depending on the willingness of school districts to keep athletic fields and play areas open after hours and on weekends.